Golf training system and methods

ABSTRACT

A golf training system and methods that analyzes user specified inputs comprising: (1) distance of the golf ball from the hole (STEPS); (2) an estimate of how much the terrain between the ball and the hole will cause the ball to diverge from a straight line of travel from its location on the golf surface to the hole (BREAK); and (3) an estimate of terrain rise or fall between the golf ball and the hole (HILL). The analysis includes an equation that calculates a FORCE value and an AIM value that is converted to a unit of measure and provided as an output that a golfer may apply during play using one or more calibration guide apparatuses, thereby training a user to improve stroke accuracy and precision.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication 62/842,151 filed May 2, 2019.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates to the game of golf and more particularly to agolf training system and methods that analyzes automated inputs and userspecified inputs to provide an output that the user may apply duringplay, thereby training a user to improve stroke accuracy and precision.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Golf is a sport or game in which golfers use clubs to hit balls into ahole on a golf course. Most courses are 18 or 9 holes and are notconsidered standard playing areas because of varied terrain. Terrainfeatures include tees, fairways, roughs, woods, water hazards, sandtraps (or bunkers), and golf greens (commonly referred to as “thegreen”). The terrain of the golf course is generally varied so as toenhance the difficulty and play experience of the golf course. Thegreens further include a hole into which the golfer attempts to placethe golf ball.

A golfer initially hits a ball from a tee box toward the green with thegoal of having the ball enter the hole in the least number of shots orstrokes possible. Usually, more than one stroke is required to place thegolf ball in the hole. The golf ball is moved from the tee box to thegreen by hitting or stroking (or golf shot) the ball with a golf club.

Golfers may be considered beginner, intermediate, or advanced andassigned a handicap. A golf handicap is a numerical measure of agolfer's potential that is used to enable players of varying abilitiesto compete against one another. Better players are those with the lowesthandicaps.

Great skill and precision is required to successfully stroke the golfball onto the green and eventually into the hole with a minimum numberof strokes. Once the ball is near the green, various physical contoursand properties of the green and its surrounding environment must bereviewed by the player to aid the player in accurately stroking/shootingthe ball into the hole. Distance to the hole, lines, slopes, grades,wind speed, wind direction, wetness or dryness of the grass, the lengthof the grass, the grain of the grass and other variables must be takeninto account when determining the direction (AIM) and swing speed(FORCE) of the golf club.

Sometimes, a golfer employs a caddie that is familiar with a course andcan therefore offer advice on the direction to hit the ball (AIM), andhow hard (FORCE) to hit the ball, what type of shot to hit, etc.However, caddies are generally not available for the average golfer. Toaddress this, technology has been used to provide digital caddies in theform of special-purpose electronic devices or as programs running onmulti-purpose electronic devices that provide much of the informationgenerally provided by a caddy. For example, global positioning system(GPS) devices are available that provide a distance to the hole or anobstacle to assist the golfer in selecting the appropriate club, type ofshot, and swing speed. Such devices are useful when hitting a drive,approach shot, or other relatively longer distance shot where precisionis less important. However, when putting or chipping on or near thegreen, where both the direction (AIM) and swing speed (FORCE) of theshot must be precisely determined, such GPS devices provide littlebenefit. Some of the most important considerations whenstroking/shooting are the position of the golf ball on the golf surfaceand the distance between the golf ball and the hole. A player'slikelihood of success largely depends upon the player knowing thesepieces of information. Once the position and distance has beendetermined, the player may adjust his or her golf club swingaccordingly. The position of the golf ball and the distance between thegolf ball and the hole may be gauged by pacing (STEPS) or is otherwiseestimated by the player. Even when an accurate measurement is obtained,it can be difficult for the player to account for ground conditions andvarying slopes of some golf surfaces.

Further, a key requirement of any digital caddy is that it must provideinformation in a sufficiently quick manner so as to not unacceptablyslow play. GPS location devices can be programmed with the coordinatesof tee blocks, fairways, greens, and other features of a golf course sothat an instant reading of an important distance can be provided at anytime. Accordingly, because the golfer can rely on the distance providedby the GPS location device rather than relying on other physical markerson the golf course (e.g. by stepping off (STEPS) a distance from adistance marker), such devices can speed play. However, as stated above,these devices provide little benefit once the ball is on or in closeproximity to the green.

Because approximately half of the strokes taken by a typical golfer areon and around the putting greens, a round of golf can be won or lostnear or on the putting greens. Consequently, being able to accuratelyread a green to determine the path the ball will roll on and swing speedto use for a particular putt is an important part of a golfer's game. Agolfer's ability to read greens accurately is a skill that must bedeveloped through training and practice. Developing the ability toaccurately assess the path that a ball will track and the speed at whichthe golf ball should be struck to make a putt on any green requires goodtraining and many repetitions.

Utilizing proper training methods and systems is the key to efficientlearning. Although certain golf training aids consider some form ofinformation on “where” (AIM) and “to what extent” (FORCE) a golfershould hit a golf ball, none teach the golfer “how” (to correctly putt)and “why” (pendulum & tempo =repeatability =lower golf scores). If agolfer receives information on where to direct his or her ball (AIM) andhow much FORCE should be used in a stroke, but is unable to putt or chipthe ball accordingly, all of the data provided by all other golf systemsor aids will not result in the golfer obtaining a lower golf score.

Continuing use of currently available systems and aids will result inrepeating the same mistakes over and over again. For example a golfermay inappropriately attribute a missed putt as a product of failing toappropriately read the contours of the green, when in fact the missedputt was due to an improper strike of the golf ball and speed of theputt.

Developing the skill to accurately read a green to determine the path agolf ball will take when struck with a given FORCE is difficult to do. Agolfer must accurately assess the speed of the green and how thecontours of the green will affect the path of the ball. The process fordetermining the speed of the green includes a read of the type of grassutilized to make the putting surface, the grain of the putting surface,current wind conditions, the time of day, when the grounds person lastcut the grass, the length of grass, the contours of the green itself,the lie of the land surrounding the greens (e.g., whether the green isnext to water or constructed on a hillside), etc. Because the assessmentprocess is complicated, a golfer's most important tool in reading agreen is the golfer's unconscious mind that has been properly andconsistently trained. Providing a golfer with training methods andsystems of how to properly and consistently putt/chip will enhance theirability to efficiently learn to read greens.

What is needed is a system and methods that analyzes automated inputsand user specified inputs to provide an output that a user may applyduring play, thereby training a user to improve stroke accuracy andprecision.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The invention is directed to a golf training system and methods thatprovides an output a user may apply during play. The output isdetermined through an analysis of inputs—automated inputs and userspecified inputs. The output may be communicated in one or more waysincluding visually or aurally. By applying the output during play, auser may be trained to improve stroke accuracy and precision.

In the simplest embodiment of the invention, the output is determinedthrough an analysis of three (3) user specified inputs: (1) distance ofthe golf ball from the hole (STEPS); (2) an estimate of how much theterrain between the ball and the hole will cause the ball to divergefrom a straight line of travel from its location on the golf surface tothe hole (BREAK); and (3) an estimate of terrain rise or fall, i.e.,slope, between the golf ball and the hole (HILL).

The output is provided in terms of FORCE and AIM that may include avalue for optimal ball trajectory, a visualization of a path the ballshould be stuck on, location on the ball where it should be struck andoptimal FORCE or swing speed to be applied to the ball.

More specifically, the invention may provide output in the form ofcalibration instruments such as charts, boards, banners, etc. that thegolfer (otherwise referred to as “user”) may reference.

The invention may provide output in the form of a value or numberresultant from one or more formulas (i.e. algebraic, charts and/orelectronic computations and displays, etc.) that communicates to thegolfer optimum AIM and FORCE for a successful putt.

According to implementations for calculating an ideal stroke/shotdirection and speed, and angle based on certain calculations, may resultin the golf ball coming to rest in the hole or within a fifteen (15)inch radius of the hole. The primary object of the invention is to lowera golfer's score by reducing the number of strokes per hole/ round ofgolf.

The invention provides training instruction in two major categories(flat and uneven surfaces), to golfers of any ability, on how todetermine the required swing speed (FORCE) and proper direction (AIM) onand around the green. The invention utilizes multiple instructionaldevices, both analog and electronic, that make the systems easy toaccess and use.

Specifically, embodiments of the invention provide systems and methodsfor calibrating, calculating and providing golfers with recommendedswing parameters in a more efficient manner that utilizes fewer analogand computational resources.

The invention focuses on FORCE and AIM and is a simplified system ofproviding information to the user by which the user's score may belowered. The term FORCE refers to the swing speed or how hard the ballmust be hit. The term AIM refers to the direction to hit the ball withrespect to the hole with consideration of other variables such as thosementioned above.

Systems and methods for calculating and calibrating the ideal FORCE andAIM of the golf ball on a golf surface, accounting for the details ofthe terrain between the golf ball and the hole, to cause a golf ball inan initial location on a golf surface, when struck by a golf club, toenter a hole in a golf surface as described are computationallyefficient and rapid. Efficient computational calculation and calibrationresults allows implementation of the systems and methods withlower-powered computing devices, including, but not limited to, mobilecomputing devices such as smart phones or similar and may beself-contained such that it is not required to connect to another systemor computer.

Implementation of the invention may be associated with special-purposeelectronic devices such as dedicated golf aids, or may be associatedwith general-purpose electronic devices, such as an application orprogram running on any of a variety of electronic devices.Implementation of the invention is significantly less computationallyintensive than existing methods for determining a putting speed andangle, allowing for implementations that are less expensive thancurrently available systems and devices. Additionally, results can beprovided more quickly, thereby speeding play.

In certain embodiments, the system queries whether or not GPS data isavailable. If so, then it is automatically retrieved. And if not, then auser may be prompted to enter certain GPS data-related inputs. Inaddition to fixed data or automated inputs, the user is prompted forcertain inputs. Calculations are performed on the inputs to provide anoutput to the user.

The invention is directed to a method of involving the use of technicalmeans such as a computer or a device. Specifically, the invention uses acombination of a computer program and physical aids, The programspecifies a method of determining both a force value and an aim value.The force value is calculated between a golf ball and a golf club head,e.g., a putter. The aim value is calculated between a golf hole and adistance from a ball to the golf hole. Specifically, the programdetermines a force value and an aim value based upon a uniquecalculation for each value. Each calculation uses a constant number, amultiplier number, and a distance number. Until now, there has not beena system or method to calculate a FORCE value or an AIM value based onthe location of a golf ball to a hole.

The output directed to the calculated values for FORCE and AIM are eachconverted to a unit of measure so that they can be each implementedusing a calibration guide apparatus.

An AIM calibration guide apparatus includes a board with a plurality ofvisual markings to illustrate various distances on either side from acenter line by which a golfer may adjust their AIM depending upon theAIM output. The AIM calibration guide is placed behind a hole such thatthe center line aligns with a center of the hole. The AIM calibrationguide displays various distances left or right of the hole; that is, theuser is provided with a visual of the unit of measure from the center ofthe hole. The user may calibrate by aiming their put/chip at the visualmarking that represents the distance measured from the center of thehole as provided by the output. For example, if the output for AIM is 4″with a right break, the golfer strikes the ball in a path aligned withthe visual marking that is 4″ to the right of the center line asindicated on the AIM calibration guide.

A FORCE calibration guide apparatus includes a board with a plurality ofvisual markings to illustrate various distances from a starting line bywhich a golfer may adjust their FORCE depending upon the FORCE output.The FORCE calibration guide illustrates to a user how far back the golfclub is being moved from the starting line to create a more consistentstroke. The FORCE calibration guide is placed behind a ball such that agolf club head can be moved from the starting line to a line of theplurality. For example, if the output for FORCE is 10″, the golferimplements a backstroke so that the golf club head is aligned with theline that is 10″ behind the ball as indicated on the FORCE calibrationguide.

The invention and its attributes and advantages may be furtherunderstood and appreciated with reference to the detailed descriptionbelow of one contemplated embodiment, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The preferred embodiments of the invention will be described inconjunction with the appended drawings provided to illustrate and not tolimit the invention, where like designations denote like elements, andin which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of the step of a user.

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the portion of the courseincluding left break.

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of the portion of the courseincluding right break.

FIG. 2C illustrates an angle of the curved travel of a ball thatdeviates from a straight line of travel from the point of impact to thehole for a left break.

FIG. 2D illustrates an angle of the curved travel of a ball thatdeviates from a straight line of travel from the point of impact to thehole for a right break.

FIG. 2E is a table defining angles for various left and right breaks.

FIG. 2F is a graphical representation of each of the various left andright breaks.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a course with ahole on a top of a hill.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a course with ahole on a bottom of a hill.

FIG. 3C illustrates an angle of the sloped travel of a ball thatdeviates from a straight line of travel from the point of impact to thehole on a bottom of a hill.

FIG. 3D illustrates an angle of the sloped travel of a ball thatdeviates from a straight line of travel from the point of impact to thehole on a top of a hill.

FIG. 3E is a table defining angles for various hills.

FIG. 3F is a graphical representation of each of the various hills.

FIG. 4A illustrates various STEP putts for a right handed golfer(reverse for a left handed golfer),

FIG. 413 illustrates various STEP putt adjustments made to accommodatedifferent green speeds for a right handed golfer (reverse for a lefthanded golfer).

FIG. 5A is an exemplary computing system that may be used to implementall or a portion of the invention.

FIG. 5B is another exemplary computing system that may be used toimplement all or a portion of the invention.

FIG. 5C is yet another exemplary computing system that may be used toimplement all or a portion of the invention.

FIG. 6A is an operation flow chart according to the invention.

FIG. 6B illustrates a block diagram of exemplary inputs to the systemaccording to the invention.

FIG. 6C illustrates a block diagram of exemplary calculations performedby the system according to the invention.

FIG. 6D illustrates a block diagram of exemplary outputs provided by thesystem according to the invention.

FIG. 7A is an operation block diagram according to the invention,

FIG. 7B is a flow chart of computer instructions steps of a computerprogram for determining a FORCE value.

FIG. 7C is a flow chart of computer instructions steps of a computerprogram for determining an AIM value.

FIG. 8A illustrates a calculation database for FORCE calculationsaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8B illustrates a calculation database for AIM calculationsaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9A illustrates an exemplary green speed calibration guide apparatusaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9B illustrates an exemplary AIM calibration guide apparatusaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9C illustrates an exemplary FORCE calibration guide apparatusaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a database directed to force and aim proficiency.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The invention provides a system and methods for golf training toconsistently lower golf scores. A device including software applicationdetermines an amount of force that a golf ball should be struck under amyriad of circumstances and conditions to provide the greatestpossibility of the ball entering the hole. The myriad of circumstancesmay include, for example, weather, golfer age, terrain including breaksand hills, etc. More specifically, a software application according tothe invention provides a digital, portable format allowing a user toquickly reference, whether practicing or playing a round of golf, theoutputs directed to AIM and FORCE by simply inputting variables directedto steps, break and hill. These inputs are considered along with fixeddata or automated inputs such as current conditions such as location orweather to calculate AIM and FORCE communicated to the user before hisor her stroke.

Although the invention is primarily discussed with respect to puttingand chipping, this is for exemplary purposes only. It is contemplatedthe invention may be used with long shots, short shots, sand obstacles,etc.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of the step of a user. The DISTANCEbetween a golf ball and the hole is a defined by a number of steps. Asshown in FIG. 1, one STEP 181 is defined by the distance from the toe ofthe trailing foot to the toe of the leading foot of the user with apreferred step being 36 inches. Although the invention may be describedin reference to a particular unit of measure, any unit of measure (i.e.feet, inches, centimeters, meters, etc.) is contemplated. A number ofsteps between a ball and a hole is represented by the letter “S”.

FIG. 2A illustrates a cross section of a portion of a course with a leftbreak from a hole and FIG. 2B illustrates a cross section of a portionof a course with a right break from a hole. A value representing anelevation change in the golf a course is referred to as a BREAK 182.This value is a visual estimate by the user. As shown in FIG. 2C andFIG. 2D, the BREAK 182 value is defined by an angle of the curved travelof a ball that deviates from a straight line of travel from the point ofimpact to the hole. The BREAK 182 value is represented by the letter“B”.

FIG. 2E is a table defining various left and right breaks: NONE, MINOR,MODERATE, MAJOR, EXTREME. FIG. 2F is a graphical representation of eachof the various left and right breaks. Each break is defined by an angleas measured from a straight line of travel from the point of impact tothe hole. A predetermined scale provides a reference for inputting theBREAK value. The input is based on the angle selected as one from thegroup: NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to67.5°, EXTREME=67.6° to 90°. The input received is translated to amultiplier value according to the following NONE=0, MINOR=1, MODERATE=2,MAJOR=3, EXTREME=4. According to this embodiment of the invention, 5multipliers are contemplated. However, the number ofcategories/multipliers may increase or decrease depending on theexperience of the golfer, for example, 4 categories or less forbeginners and 6 categories or more for advanced players.

In an embodiment contemplated for beginners, the multipliers may be 0for a predetermined scale with MINOR=0°, multiplier 1 for apredetermined scale with MODERATE=1-30°, multiplier 2 for MAJOR=31°-60°,and multiplier 3 for a scale with EXTREME=61°90°. In another embodimentcontemplated for advanced players, the predetermined scale may beNONE=0°, MINOR=0.1° to 18°, MODERATE=18.1° to 36′, MAJOR=36.1° to 54°,EXTREME=54.1° to 72′, ACUTE=72.1° to 90° with multipliers NONE=0,MINOR=1, MODERATE=2, MAJOR=3, EXTREME=4, ACUTE=5. FIG. 3A illustrates aperspective view of a portion of a course with a hole on a top of ahill. FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a coursewith a hole on a bottom of a hill. A value representing the severity ofdownhill or uphill (i.e., terrain elevation or slope) is referred to asa HILL 183. This value is a visual estimate by the user. As shown inFIG. 3C and FIG. 3D, the HILL 183 value is defined by an angle of thesloped travel of a ball that deviates from a straight line of travelfrom the point of impact to the hole. The HILL 183 value is representedby the letter “H”.

FIG. 3E is a table defining various hills: NONE, MINOR, MODERATE, MAJOR,EXTREME. FIG. 3F is a graphical representation of each of the varioushills. Each hill is defined by an angle as measured from a straight lineof travel from the point of impact to the hole.

A predetermined scale provides a reference for inputting the HILL value.The input is based on the angle selected as one from the group: NONE=0°,MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to 67.5°,EXTREME=67.6° to 90°. The input received is translated to a multipliervalue according to the following NONE=0, MINOR=1, MODERATE=2, MAJOR=3,EXTREME=4. According to this embodiment of the invention, 5 multipliersare contemplated. However, the number of categories multipliers mayincrease or decrease depending on the experience of the golfer, forexample, 4 categories or less for beginners and 6 categories or more foradvanced players,

In an embodiment contemplated for beginners, the multipliers may be 0for a predetermined scale with MINOR=0°, multiplier 1 for apredetermined scale with MODERATE=1-30°, multiplier 2 for MAJOR=31°-60°,and multiplier 3 for a scale with EXTREME=61°-90°. In another embodimentcontemplated for advanced players, the predetermined scale may beNONE=0°, MINOR=0.1° to 18°, MODERATE=18.1° to 36°, MAJOR=36.1° to 54°,EXTREME=54.1° to 72°, ACUTE=72.1° to 90° with multipliers NONE=0,MINOR=1, MODERATE=2, MAJOR=3, EXTREME=4, ACUTE=5.

The distance of how far a ball travels in a putt is determined by thedistance of the backstroke of the golf club head (e.g., a putter) and afollow through that is equal to the distance of the backstroke. A valuerepresenting the distance a putter is moved in a backstroke ascalculated from a starting position is referred to as FORCE 305. Thedistance controls how far the ball travels forward when struck by theputter. The FORCE 305 value is represented by the letter “F”.

According to a preferred embodiment, FORCE 305 is based on a factor of10 inches with varying conditions that may impact the FORCE 305 distanceby slightly increasing or decreasing the FORCE 305 value from 10 inches.Hence, a 10-STEP putt is where the ball is 10 STEPS from the hole—i.e.,10 yard, 30 foot, 360 inch, 9.144 meter, 914.4 centimeters—and has aFORCE 305 (backstroke) of 10 inches. Using a factor of 10 inches, incomparison to other factors, was determined to provide the most accurateoutput with respect to the FORCE value. Although the unit of measure isinches, any unit is contemplated such as feet, centimeters, meters, etc.

As noted above, HILL 183 is up or down when facing the hole standingbehind the ball, and a visual estimate of the severity of uphill ordownhill terrain between the ball and the hole. BREAK 182 is left orright facing the hole standing behind the ball, and a visual estimate ofseverity of left to right or right to left expected golf ball movement.HILL 183 and BREAK 182 combinations exhibit four (4) potential outcomes,with varying degrees of each: (1) no HILL 183, no BREAK 182 is astraight, flat putt, (2) HILL 183, but no BREAK 182, (3) no HILL 183with BREAK 182, and (4) both HILL 183 and BREAK 182. It must be notedthat uphill putts are slower and BREAK 182 less. Therefore, more FORCE305 has to be exerted on an uphill putt, offsetting the impact ofgravity on an uphill putt. Downhill putts are faster and BREAK 182 more.Therefore less FORCE 305 has to be exerted on a downhill putt, becauseof the increasing impact of gravity on a downhill putt.

The invention is directed to a method of involving the use of technicalmeans such as a computer or a device. Specifically, the invention uses acombination of a computer program and physical aids. The programspecifies a method of determining both a force value and an aim value.The force value is calculated between a golf ball and a golf club head.The aim value is calculated between a golf hole and a distance of theball from the golf hole. Specifically, the program determines a forcevalue and an aim value based upon a unique equation for each value. Eachequation uses a constant number, a multiplier number, and a distancenumber. The calculated value is then converted to a unit of measure sothat the force value and aim value can be implemented using acalibration guide apparatus.

FIG. 4A illustrates various STEP putts for a right handed golfer(reverse for a left handed golfer). FIG. 4A illustrates STEP putts. A10-STEP putt is where the ball is 10 STEPS from the hole, a 15-STEP puttis where the ball is 15 STEPS from the hole, etc. FORCE 305 for a10-STEP putt (i.e., the ball is 10 STEPS from the hole) for a righthanded golfer, begins on a level portion of a putting green, placing theinside of the left and right foot approximately 10 inches apart. Placethe golf ball near the inside of the front (left) foot. Head & eyesdirectly above the golf ball, Backswing FORCE 305 (golf club head) willgo to the inside of the back (right) foot, followed by the forwardputting stroke.

With the achievement of a consistent 10-STEP putt, a 5-STEP putt, isachieved by simply decrease the 10-STEP backstroke by half, with a 5inch backstroke and 5 inch follow through. Similarly, a 20-STEP putt, isachieved by simply doubling the 10-STEP backstroke to a 20 inchbackstroke and 20 inch follow through. A 15-STEP putt is approximately a15 inch back stroke and follow through. A 1-STEP or 3-foot putt onlyneeds a 1 inch back stroke.

FIG. 4B illustrates various adjustments made to FORCE 305 to accommodatedifferent green speeds for a right handed golfer (reverse for a lefthanded golfer). Green speed is a measure, such as a “stimp” rating by astimpmeter device, of the speed of a golf course putting green byapplying a known force to a golf ball and measuring the distancetraveled in feet. Calibrating for different putting green speeds isaccomplished by increasing or decreasing the distance between the user'sfeet to adjust for greens with different speeds, Using a 10-STEP putt asa baseline, the distance between feet is adjusted, with faster puttinggreens, requiring feet to be closer together and slower putting greens,requiring feet to be further apart. Factors impacting putting greenspeed can include: length of grass, direction grass is cut, directiongrass is growing (towards the sun), type of grass, wetness, wind, etc.It is contemplated that practice putting greens as well as the differentputting greens on a particular golf course are relatively similar.

Embodiments of the invention may be practiced by one or more computingdevices and in a variety of system configurations, including in anetworked configuration. For example, the invention may be implementedusing a variety of general-purpose and special-purpose electronic andcomputing devices, which may further communicate via a network. It iscontemplated that the invention may be practiced by one or morecomputing devices and in a variety of system configurations, includingin a networked configuration. However, it is also contemplated that theinvention may include and/or utilize embedded systems with generalpurpose processing units, digital/media signal processors (DSP/MSP),application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), standalone electronicdevices, and other such electronic environments. FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, andFIG. SC illustrate exemplary computing systems that may be used toimplement all or a portion of the invention.

FIG. 5A includes a computer device 10, which may be a general-purpose orspecial purpose computer or any of a variety of consumer electronicdevices. For example, computer device 10 may be a personal computer, anotebook or laptop computer, a netbook, a personal digital assistant(“PDA”) or other hand-held device, a smart phone, a tablet computer, aworkstation, a minicomputer, a mainframe, a supercomputer, amulti-processor system, a network computer, a processor-based consumerelectronic device, a computer device integrated into another device orvehicle, a golf-specific device, a GPS device, or the like. Computerdevice 10 includes system bus 12, which may be configured to connectvarious components thereof and enables data to be exchanged between twoor more components. System bus 12 may include one of a variety of busstructures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheralbus, or a local bus that uses any of a variety of bus architectures.Typical components connected by system bus 12 include processing system14 and memory 16. Other components may include one or more mass storagedevice interface 18, input interface 20, output interface 22, and/ornetwork interface 24, discussed more fully below.

Processing system 14 includes one or more processors, such as a centralprocessor and optionally one or more other processors designed toperform a particular function or task. It is typically processing system14 that executes the program instructions provided on computer-readablemedia, such as on memory 16, a magnetic hard disk, a removable magneticdisk, a magnetic cassette, an optical disk, or from a communicationconnection, which may also be viewed as a computer-readable medium ormay provide access to a remote computer-readable medium.

Memory 16 includes one or more computer-readable media that may beconfigured to include or includes thereon data or instructions formanipulating data, and may be accessed by processing system 14 throughsystem bus 12. Memory 16 may include, for example, ROM 28, used topermanently store information, and/or RAM 30, used to temporarily storeinformation. ROM 28 may include a basic input/output system (“BIOS”)having one or more routines that are used to establish communication,such as during start-up of computer device 10. RAM 30 may include one ormore program modules, such as one or more operating systems, applicationprograms, and/or program data. One or more databases are stored inmemory 16.

One or more mass storage device interfaces 18 may be used to connect oneor more mass storage devices 26 to system bus 12. The mass storagedevices 26 may be incorporated into or may be peripheral to computerdevice 10 and allow computer device 10 to retain large amounts of data.Optionally, one or more of the mass storage devices 26 may be removablefrom computer device 10. Examples of mass storage devices include harddisk drives, magnetic disk drives, tape drives, flash memory drives, andoptical disk drives. A mass storage device 26 may read from and/or writeto a magnetic hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a magnetic cassette,an optical disk, flash memory, or another computer-readable medium. Massstorage devices 26 and their corresponding computer-readable mediaprovide nonvolatile storage of data and/or executable instructions thatmay include one or more program modules such as an operating system, oneor more application programs, other program modules, or program data.Such executable instructions may include program code as a means forimplementing certain methods of the invention. Computer executableinstructions may include data structures, objects, programs, routines,or other program modules that may be accessed by a processing system,such as one associated with a general-purpose computer capable ofperforming various different functions or one associated with a specialpurpose computer capable of performing a limited number of functions.Specifically, computer executable instructions cause the processingsystem to perform a particular function or group of functions and areexamples of program code means for implementing steps for methodsdisclosed herein. Furthermore, a particular sequence of the executableinstructions provides an example of corresponding acts that may be usedto implement such steps. Examples of computer-readable media includerandom-access memory (“RAM”), read-only memory (“ROM”), programmableread-only memory (“PROM”), erasable programmable read-only memory(“EPROM”), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory(“EPROM”), compact disk read-only memory (“CD-ROM”), or any other deviceor component that is capable of providing data or executableinstructions that may be accessed by a processing system. Whileembodiments of the invention embrace the use of all types ofcomputer-readable media, certain embodiments as recited in the claimsmay be limited to the use of tangible, non-transitory computer-readablemedia, and the phrases “tangible computer-readable medium” and“non-transitory computer-readable medium” (or plural variations) usedherein are intended to exclude transitory propagating signals per se.

As shown in FIG. 5A, one or more input interfaces 20 may be employed toenable a user to enter data and/or instructions to computer device 10through one or more corresponding input devices 32. Examples of suchinput devices include a keyboard and alternate input devices, such as amouse, trackball, light pen, stylus, or other pointing device, amicrophone, a joystick, a game pad, a satellite dish, a scanner, acamcorder, a digital camera, a touch screen, and the like. Similarly,examples of input interfaces 20 that may be used to connect the inputdevices 32 to the system bus 12 include a serial port, a parallel port,a game port, a universal serial bus (“USB”), an integrated circuit, afire-wire (IEEE 1394), or another interface. For example, in someembodiments input interface 20 includes an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC) that is designed for a particular application.In a further embodiment, the ASIC is embedded and connects existingcircuit building blocks.

One or more output interfaces 22 may be employed to connect one or morecorresponding output devices 34 to system bus 12. Examples of outputdevices include a monitor or display screen, lights, a speaker, aprinter, a multi-functional peripheral, and the like. A particularoutput device 34 may be integrated with or peripheral to computer device10. Examples of output interfaces include a video adapter, an audioadapter, a parallel port, and the like.

One or more network interfaces 24 enable computer device 10 to exchangeinformation with one or more other local or remote computer devices 36,illustrated as computer devices 36, via a network 38 that may includehardwired and/or wireless links. Examples of network interfaces includea network adapter for connection to a local area network (“LAN”) or amodem, wireless link, or other adapter for connection to a wide areanetwork (“WAN”), such as the Internet. The network interface 24 may beincorporated with or peripheral to computer device 10. In a networkedsystem, accessible program modules or portions thereof may be stored ina remote memory storage device. Furthermore, in a networked systemcomputer device 10 may participate in a distributed computingenvironment, where functions or tasks are performed by a plurality ofnetworked computer devices 36.

As shown in FIG. 5B mobile devices 40 communicate via network 38. And asshown in FIG. 5C, a computer device 36, mobile device 40 and otherdevices 50 communicate via network 38. These embodiments permit theexchange of information between two or more devices. For example, agolfer may wish to synchronize the output received on its mobile device40 to a computer device 36.

FIG. 6A is an operation flow chart according to the invention. Inputs100 are provided to the system, and calculations 200 are performed torender outputs 300.

FIG. 6B illustrates a block diagram of exemplary inputs to the systemaccording to the invention. Application inputs 100 include, but are notlimited to: fixed data or automated inputs 110, variable data or userspecified inputs 150. Automated Inputs 110 may include data that isautomatically updated based on current conditions such as location orweather. For example, GPS Location 111 is data that may be obtained fromany aerial based system and used to determine the golf course beingplayed or the user's location on the course. GPS Weather 112 is dataregarding current weather conditions such as wind speed, temperature,humidity, and may be obtained from one or more sources such asweather.com or other digital weather services. Course Slope Rating 113is data that indicates the measurement of the relative difficulty of acourse for players who are not scratch golfers compared to thedifficulty of a course for scratch golfers. Course Stimp Rating 114 isdata directed to the measurement of the speed of a golf course puttinggreen. This data is measured by applying a known FORCE to a golf balland measuring the distance traveled in feet. Various other automatedinputs are referred to as Other Input 11 x.

Variable data or user specified inputs 150 are manual inputs entered tothe system by the user. These include general inputs 160 such as nameand address as well as other inputs discussed below. One input may beGolfer Handicap 161, which is a numerical measure of a user's potentialability. In the US Golf Association (USGA) system, handicaps rangebetween zero and 36.4 for men and 40.4 for women. The handicap shows auser's current skill level in the game. Golfer Age 162 is data in yearsor by year of birth. Data directed to Golfer Gender 163 is input as male(“M”) or female (“F”) and used as a factor in applying strength to thecalculations. Manual weather 164 data may be that which the user deemsimportant but not provided as an automated input. For example, manualweather 164 may be the user's estimation of precipitation in the past xhours. Manual green speeds 165 is data based on a user's estimation andcan be entered as numerical values or as a selection from a group, e.g.,Average, Fast, Slow, or None, Minor, Moderate, Major. For example, aninput of “Average” for green speed may denote a 6.5 feet-8.5 feetestimated distance of a ball struck by the user to travel to a hole. Oran input of “Average” for green speed may denote a 5-10 mph estimatedspeed of a ball struck by the user during travel to a hole. Golf ClubWeights 166 data is the weight of the club the user is using. Forexample, Golf Club Weights 166 data may be entered as a numerical valuebetween 12-20 ounces. Other Input 16 x is also contemplated.

User specified inputs 150 also include Putting Green Input 180 such asDistance 181, BREAK 182, HILL 183, Golf Club In-Use 184, or Other Input18 x. The Distance 181 input denotes the amount of space between a balland the hole measured in STEPS (S) 181. As described above, totaldistance or length of a putt of 1 step=1 STEP or 3 feet. BREAK 182 inputis a value representing the evaluation of terrain between the ball andthe hole in terms of divergence from a straight line of travel from thepoint of impact to the hole. HILL 183 represents the extent the terrainbetween the ball and the hole rises or falls. And Golf Club In-Use 184may be entry of “a” for Putter or “b” for Chipping Wedge. Various othermanual inputs are referred to as Other Input 18 x.

FIG. 6C illustrates a block diagram of exemplary calculations performedby the system according to the invention. Application Calculations 200include, but are not limited to PUTTING Calculations 210 and CHIPPINGCalculations 250.

PUTTING Calculations 210 include an AIM Calculation 220 and a FORCECalculation 230. The AIM Calculation 220=STEPS×BREAK+STEPS/5×HILL×(−1for Uphill or +1 for Downhill). The FORCE Calculation230=STEPS+STEPS/5×HILL×(+1 for Uphill or −1 for Downhill. CHIPPINGCalculations 250 include an AIM Calculation 260 and a FORCE Calculation270. The AIM Calculation 260=STEPS/2×BREAK+STEPS/5×HILL×(−1 for Uphillor +1 for Downhill). The FORCE Calculation 270=STEPS+STEPS/5×HILL×(+1for Uphill or −1 for Downhill). With the FORCE variable impacted mostsignificantly by the STEPS variable, the impact of the HILL variable inthe equation must be diminished. According to the invention, the HILLvariable is diminished by dividing a STEP variable by 5 since this valueeffectively reduces the impact of the HILL variable on the equation andpermits a 1:1 ratio for converting the calculated FORCE or AIM value toa unit of measure. Using a number other than 5 was discovered to noteffectively reduce the impact of the HILL variable on the equation and,further, fails to enable the FORCE value and AIM value to be convertedto a unit of measure.

FIG. 6D illustrates a block diagram of exemplary outputs provided by thesystem according to the invention. Application Outputs 300 include, butare not limited to a PUTTING Output 310 and a CHIPPING Output 350.PUTTING Output 310 includes a Putting AIM Output 320 and a Putting FORCEOutput 330. The Putting AIM Output 320 is the number of inches fromcenter of hole, right or left to begin the putt and is communicated asone or both of a visual output 321 and an aural output 322. The PuttingFORCE Output 330 is a number of inches to take the club back measuredfrom the user's instep that contributes to how far the putted ball willtravel and is communicated as one or both of a visual output 331 and anaural output 332. CHIPPING Output 350 includes a Chipping AIM Output 360and a Chipping FORCE Output 370. The Chipping AIM Output 360 is thenumber of inches (or other unit of measure) from center of hole, rightor left to begin the chip and is communicated as one or both of a visualoutput 361 and an aural output 362. The Chipping FORCE Output 370 is anumber of inches to take the club back measured from the user's instepthat contributes to how far the chipped ball will travel and iscommunicated as one or both of a visual output 371 and an aural output372. Data is stored 380, and specifically FORCE data and AIM data isstored in databases 381A, 381B (see FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B).

FIG. 7A is an operation block diagram according to the invention. Inputs100 are provided to the system, and calculations 200 performed to renderoutputs 300. The invention is implemented through an applicationincluding software program with executable instructions that may bedownloadable, for example, to a mobile device such as a phone or smartwatch. It is also contemplated that the invention may be directed tosoftware and hardware that is self-contained such that it does notrequire any connection to another device.

More specifically, as shown in the flow chart of FIG. 7B, a computerprogram stored in one or more non-transitory computer-readable mediumsfor determining a FORCE value, the computer program comprisinginstructions for performing the steps of receiving by a processor afirst input of a number of steps 702, receiving a hill severity input704, translating the hill severity input to a multiplier value 706,receiving a constant value input 708, applying the equation to findFORCE 710. If the FORCE value is not an integer 712, the value isrounded to the nearest integer 714. Otherwise, if the FORCE value is aninteger 712, the FORCE value is converted into a unit of length (e.g.inches) 716 and output to the user 718. The output is a distance of thegolf club head backstroke. At step 702, the number of steps is the totaldistance from the ball to the hole, i.e., the length of the putt.According to the invention, 1. step equals 3 feet. This fixed definitionwas determined, in combination with the other inputs, to provide themost accurate FORCE value calculation.

At step 704, hill severity input (NONE, MINOR, MODERATE, MAJOR, EXTREME)is received based on a predetermined scale. The predetermined scaleis—NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to67.5°, EXTREME=67.6° to 90°. This scale was determine to provide themost accurate FORCE value calculation. Using the predetermined scale,the golfer estimates the angle of the sloped travel of a ball thatdeviates from a straight line of travel from the point of impact to thehole. Depending on the input of the hill severity as NONE, MINOR,MODERATE, MAJOR, EXTREME, at step 706 it is translated to a value 0through 4. Particularly, NONE=0, MINOR=1, MODERATE=2, MAJOR=3,EXTREME=4.

At step 708, a constant value is received that is based upon whether theball is uphill or downhill from the hole. If the ball is uphill, theconstant value is +1. If the ball is downhill, the constant value is −1.

At step 710, the equation is applied: FORCE CalculationValue=STEPS+STEPS/5×HILL×(+1 for Uphill or −1 for Downhill). With theFORCE value impacted most significantly by the STEPS variable, theimpact of the HILL variable in the equation must be diminished.According to the invention, the HILL variable is diminished by dividinga STEP variable by 5 since this value effectively reduces the impact ofthe. HILL variable on the equation and permits a 1:1 ratio forconverting the calculated FORCE value to a unit of measure. Using anumber other than 5 was discovered to not effectively reduce the impactof the HILL variable on the equation and, further, fails to enable theFORCE value to be converted to a unit of measure.

At step 712, if the FORCE calculation value is not an integer, it isrounded to the nearest integer at step 714. The FORCE value integer isconverted to a unit of length at step 716. According to one embodiment,the FORCE value integer is converted to inches using a 1:1 ratio. A 1:1ratio is used since the equation effectively reduces the impact of theHILL variable in order to output a value that correlates to a unit ofmeasure. At step 718, the FORCE value is output in the form of the unitof length which is applied using a calibration guide apparatus(described below). As shown in the flow chart of FIG. 7C, a computerprogram stored in one or more non-transitory computer-readable mediumsfor determining an AIM value, the computer program comprisinginstructions for performing the steps of receiving by a processor afirst input of a number of steps 752, receiving a break input 754,translating the break input to a multiplier value 756, receiving a hillseverity input 758, translating the hill severity input to a multipliervalue 760, receiving a constant value input 762, applying the equationto find AIM 764. If the AIM value is not an integer 766, the value isrounded to the nearest integer 768. Otherwise, if the AIM value is aninteger 766, the AIM value is converted into a unit of length (e.g.inches) 770 and output to the user 772. The output is a distancemeasured from the center of the hole.

At step 752, the number of steps is the total distance from the ball tothe hole, i.e., the length of the putt. According to the invention, 1step equals 3 feet. This fixed definition was determined, in combinationwith the other inputs, to provide the most accurate AIM valuecalculation.

At step 754, break input (NONE, MINOR, MODERATE, MAJOR, EXTREME), isreceived based on a predetermined scale. The predetermined scaleis—NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to67.5°, EXTREME=67.6° to 90°. This scale was determine to provide themost accurate AIM value calculation. Using the predetermined scale, thegolfer estimates the angle of the curved travel of a ball that deviatesfrom a straight line of travel from the point of impact to the hole foreither a right or a left break. Depending on the input of the breakinput as NONE, MINOR, MODERATE, MAJOR, EXTREME, at step 756 it istranslated to a value 0 through 4. Particularly, NONE=0, MINOR=1,MODERATE=2, MAJOR=3, EXTREME=4.

At step 758, hill severity input (NONE, MINOR, MODERATE, MAJOR, EXTREME)is received based on a predetermined scale. The predetermined scaleis—NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to67.5°, EXTREME=67.6° to 90°. This scale was determine to provide themost accurate AIM value calculation. Using the predetermined scale, thegolfer estimates the angle of the sloped travel of a ball that deviatesfrom a straight line of travel from the point of impact to the hole.Depending on the input of the hill severity as NONE, MINOR, MODERATE,MAJOR, EXTREME, at step 758 it is translated to a value 0 through 4.Particularly, NONE=0, MINOR=1, MODERATE=2, MAJOR=3, EXTREME=4.

At step 762, a constant value is received that is based upon whether theball is uphill or downhill from the hole. If the ball is uphill, theconstant value is +1. If the ball is downhill, the constant value is −1.

At step 764, the equation is applied: AIM CalculationValue=STEPS×BREAK+STEPS/5×HILL×(−1 for Uphill or +1 for Downhill). Withthe AIM value impacted most significantly by the STEPS variable, theimpact of the HILL variable in the equation must be diminished.According to the invention, the HILL variable is diminished by dividinga STEP variable by 5 since this value effectively reduces the impact ofthe HILL variable on the equation and permits a 1:1 ratio for convertingthe calculated AIM value to a unit of measure. Using a number other than5 was discovered to not effectively reduce the impact of the AIMvariable on the equation and, further, fails to enable the AIM value tobe converted to a unit of measure.

At step 766, if the AIM calculation value is not an integer, it isrounded to the nearest integer at step 768. The AIM value integer isconverted to a unit of length at step 770. According to one embodiment,the AIM value integer is converted to inches using a 1:1 ratio. A 1:1ratio is used since the equation was formulated to output a value thatcorrelates to a unit of measure. At step 772, the AIM value is output inthe form of the unit of length which is applied using a calibrationguide apparatus (described below).

FIG. 8A illustrates a calculation database for FORCE calculationsaccording to an embodiment of the invention. The database is stored inmemory and stores the values for each calculation along with an outputassociated with each FORCE value calculated.

Depending on the FORCE value, output is accessed and retrieved foroutput, either as a visual or aural output. As shown in FIG. 8A, thedatabase comprises a table of inputs and corresponding calculated FORCEvalue. The database also includes the output that includes thecalculated FORCE value converted to a unit of measure. The output is adistance of the golf club head backstroke.

FIG. 8B illustrates a calculation database for AIM calculationsaccording to an embodiment of the invention. The database is stored inmemory and stores the values for each calculation along with an outputassociated with each AIM value calculated. Depending on the AIM value,output is accessed and retrieved for output, either as a visual or auraloutput. As shown in FIG. 8B, the database comprises a table of inputsand corresponding calculated AIM value. The database also includes theoutput that includes the calculated AIM value converted to a unit ofmeasure. The output is a distance measured from the center of the hole.

As mentioned above, the calculated values for FORCE and AIM are eachconverted to a unit of measure so that they can be implemented using acalibration guide apparatus.

FIG. 9A illustrates an exemplary green speed calibration guide accordingto an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the Green Speed calibrationguide 410 includes but is not limited to: a visual indication of how farback a golf club should be moved based on the speed of the green.Calibration for different green speeds is accomplished by increasing ordecreasing the space between a user's feet. The Green Speed calibrationguide 410 includes a board with guide lines that indicate the length ordistance the club-head (i.e., putter) is taken back based on the speedof the green. Nearly all greens are Standard in terms of speed. Onoccasion, Slower Greens may require further separation of the golfer'sstance or separation of feet. Likewise, on occasion faster greens willneed less separation and a shorter backstroke. This guide may be used inconjunction with the calibration guide apparatus of FIG. 9C. AIM 301determines outputting magnitude of direction change based onvariable(s).

AIM 301 is the distance left or right of the center of the holeexpressed in inches, feet, yards, centimeters and/or meters the golfershould AIM 301 the putt/chip based on the varied terrain between thecurrent position of the golf ball and the hole.

FIG. 9B illustrates an exemplary AIM calibration guide apparatusaccording to an embodiment of the invention. The AIM calibration guide420 includes but is not limited to:

providing a visual indication of how far left or right a golfer shouldAIM when putting/chipping. The AIM calibration guide 420 has visualmarkings to indicate various distances by which a golfer may adjusttheir AIM 301 depending upon the AIM output. For visual reference, theAIM calibration guide 420 is placed behind the hole with the center flagaligned with the center of the hole. The Guide 420 to display variousdistances left or right of the hole; that is, the user is provided witha visual with what 3″, 4″, 6″ 8″, 10″, 20″, etc. looks like; however,any measurement is contemplated. The user may calibrate by aiming theirput/chip at a distance measured from the center of the hole as providedby the output. For example, if the output for AIM is 4″ with a rightbreak, the golfer strikes the ball in a path aligned with the line thatis 4″ to the right of the center line as indicated on the AIMcalibration guide 420. Marking a straight line on a golf ball with apermanent marker may be used to help with alignment.

As discussed above, FORCE is used to adjust the distance a user moves aclub back to control how far the golf ball will travel forward. Bykeeping all other variables constant, especially tempo, varying thelength or distance of the backswing can be easily adjusted.

FIG. 9C illustrates an exemplary FORCE calibration guide apparatusaccording to an embodiment of the invention. The FORCE Backswingcalibration guide 430 includes but is not limited to: a device withvisual markings that indicate various distances to which a golfer mayconfirm the distance of their back stroke and fore stroke. The FORCEBackswing calibration guide 430 is a device that provides a visualindication for adjusting the distance a golfer moves a golf club back(backstroke) to control how far the golf ball will travel forward.

As shown, the FORCE calibration guide includes a board with lines toillustrate to the user how far back the golf club is being moved tocreate a more consistent stroke. A proper putting stroke has a subtlearc, illustrated on the board by a pair of parallel dotted green lines.It is assumed that the follow through of the putting stroke is about thesame length or longer or distance as the back swing. For visualreference, the FORCE calibration guide 430 is placed in line with theball. The Guide 430 displays various distances behind the ball; that is,the user is provided with a visual with what 2″, 6″ 8″, 10″, 22″, etc.looks like; however, any measurement is contemplated. The user maycalibrate by moving their golf club head to a distance of a backstrokeas provided by the output, For example, if the output for FORCE is 10″,the golfer implements a backstroke so that the golf club head is alignedwith the line that is 10″ behind the ball as indicated on the FORCEcalibration guide 430. Ball distance is increased by longer backstrokesand decreased by shorter backstrokes.

FIG. 10 is a database directed to force and aim proficiency.Specifically, the database provides percentages of proficiency for FORCEand 10-step calibration prior to advancing to AIM calculations and anumber of variables for AIM calculations and BREAK calculations. In theUS Golf Association (USDA) system, handicaps range between zero and 36.4for men and 40.4 for women. The handicap shows a user's current skilllevel in the game and should not be confused with a basic average ofpast scores for the user.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific tostructural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understoodthat the subject matter defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above.Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed asexample forms of implementing the claims.

1. A golf training system comprising: a computer program stored in oneor more non-transitory computer-readable mediums, the computer programcomprising instructions for performing steps to determine a FORCE valueand an AIM value; and one or more calibration guides for implementingthe FORCE value and the AIM value.
 2. The computer program according toclaim 1, wherein the instructions are executed to perform the steps of:receiving by a processor a first input of a number of steps (STEPS),wherein 1 step equals 3 feet; receiving by the processor a hill severityinput (HILL), wherein the hill severity input is received based on apredetermined scale: NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°,MAJOR=46° to 67.5°, EXTREME=67.6° to 90°; translating by the processorthe hill severity input to a multiplier value selected from the values0-4; receiving by the processor a constant value input, wherein theconstant value is selected from the group: +1 and −1; applying by theprocessor an equation to find a FORCE value, wherein the equation is:FORCE=STEPS+STEPS/5×HILL×(+1 for Uphill or −1 for Downhill) convertingby the processor the FORCE value into a unit of length, output by theprocessor the unit of length for a distance of the golf club headbackstroke.
 3. The computer program according to claim 2, wherein theconverting step further comprises the step of rounding the FORCE valueto the nearest integer.
 4. The computer program according to claim 1,wherein the instructions are executed to perform the steps of: receivingby a processor a first input of a number of steps (STEPS), wherein 1step equals 3 feet; receiving by the processor a break input (BREAK),wherein the break input is received based on a predetermined scale:NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°, MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to 67.5°,EXTREME=67.6° to 90°; translating by the processor the break input to amultiplier value selected from the values 0-4; receiving by theprocessor a hill severity input (HILL), wherein the hill severity inputis received based on a predetermined scale: NONE=0°, MINOR=1° to 22.5°,MODERATE=22.6° to 45°, MAJOR=46° to 67.5°, EXTREME=67.6° to 90°;translating by the processor the hill severity input to a multipliervalue selected from the values 0-4; receiving by the processor aconstant value input, wherein the constant value is selected from thegroup: +1 and 4; applying by the processor an equation to find an AIMvalue, wherein the equation is:AIM=STEPS×BREAK+STEPS/5×HILL×(+1 for Uphill or −1 for Downhill)converting by the processor the AIM value into a unit of length, outputby the processor the unit of length for a distance from the center of ahole.
 5. The computer program according to claim 4, wherein theconverting step The computer program according to claim 2, wherein theconverting step further comprises the step of rounding the FORCE valueto the nearest integer.
 6. The computer program according to claim 1,further comprising automated inputs such GPS location or weather data.7. The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the FORCE valueand the AIM value are output visually or aurally.
 8. The computerprogram according to claim 7, wherein the visual o p is one or moreelectronic, charts, boards, and banners,
 9. The one or more calibrationguides according to claim 1, wherein an AIM calibration guide has aplurality of visual markings to illustrate various distances on eitherside from a center line.
 10. The one or more calibration guidesaccording to claim 9, wherein the AIM calibration guide is positionedbehind a hole such that the center line aligns with a center of thehole.
 11. The one or more calibration guides according to claim 1,wherein a FORCE calibration guide has a plurality of visual markings toillustrate various distances from a starting line.
 12. The one or morecalibration guides according to claim 11, wherein the FORCE calibrationguide is placed behind a ball such that a golf club head can be movedfrom the starting line to a line of the plurality.